June 16, 2017

June 16th - July 6th, 2017

AthensNowal.com E-MAIL: info@athensnowal.com ADVERTISING: Ali Elizabeth: 256-468-9425

See Our Listings Inside this edition...

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Limestone Health Facility Spotlight On Cheryl Blakely Barksdale...

Cheryl Blakely Barksdale was born in September of 1953. She graduated from Athens Bible School, and her daddy worked at...

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By Ali Elizabeth Turner Every two weeks I get in my ’93 Sierra pickup truck and drive to Florence to pick up the latest “run” of Athens Now. Working my way back to Athens, I have two deliveries in Rogersville— one is an outdoor box on Lee Street, right next to a restaurant in the historical section of town. That café, located at 1609 Continued on page 15

Special Feature Premier Structures, Incorporated: Solar And The Future Of Construction...

Dan Mankins has been a part of Premier Structures, Incorporated since 2003, when the founders, Will and Helen Evans, were both...

Page 7

What Makes Ronnie Roll “No Country For Average Joes”...

The concept of “the Average Joe” is generally one of affection in our culture...

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June 16 - July 6, 2017

Honeysuckle Café: Worth The Drive To Rogersville

Athens Limestone Hospital And Valley Internal Medicine: Practicing With Distinction

By Ali Elizabeth Turner Helen McWhorter (l) Certified Medical Assistant and Health Coach, and Dr. Sasha Acelajado MD at a recent seminar held in Baltimore, MD.

www.athensnowal.com

Nearly every day we are subjected to negative reports about the state of our health care system as well as skyContinued on pages 17

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June 16 - July 6, 2017

Publisher’s Point Publisher / Editor Ali Turner

Hand Over Your Heart? Why?

Copy Editor

Yvonne Dempsey

Graphic Design

Jonathan Hamilton

Web Design Teddy Wolcott

Contributing Writers Janet Hunt D. A. Slinkard Wanda Campbell Paul Foreman Deb Kitchenmaster Kimberly Hobbs Tim Lambert Sandra Thompson Jackie Warner Rosemary Dewar Dr. Shanna Ndong Lisa Philippart Lynne Hart

Publisher’s Point . . . . . . . . 3 All Things Soldier . . . . . . . 4 Limestone Health Spotlight . . 5 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . 6 Special Feature . . . . . . . . 7 What Makes Ronnie Roll . . . 8 Slinkard on Success . . . . . 9 From The Vets' Museum . . . 10 PlayAction Sports . . . . . . . 11 Clean and Green . . . . . . . 12 Cooking With Kimberly . . . . 13 Millennial Mind . . . . . . . 14 Cover Stories . . . . . . 15 & 17 Health and Fitness . . . . . . 16 Learning As A Lifestyle . . . . 18 View From The Bridge . . . . 19 Horse Whispering . . . . . . . . 20 Mental Health Minute . . . 21 Medical Update . . . . . . . . 22 Foreman's Forum . . . . . . . . 23

June 16 - July 6, 2017

Wednesday was Flag Day, and as they have for the past few years, Athens State University graciously hosted a program that included music and speeches to commemorate “The Grand Old Flag” and all that it symbolizes. To the dismay of some present at the ceremony, it was estimated that almost half of those gathered in the ASU Ballroom did not place their hand over their hearts during our national anthem. Why that was the case, I have no idea, but it made me curious as to the history of the hand-overheart tradition.

So, I looked into it, and found that many of our traditions regarding flag etiquette go back to 1942, when we as a nation, as well as the rest of the free world, were in the fight of our lives. There became what was known as the U.S. Flag Code, which was written in 1942, and it has never been adjusted, amended or retired. It spelled out the protocol for how one interacts with the flag, others, and music in public settings where we say the Pledge of Allegiance and sing “The StarSpangled Banner.” Interestingly, what we now think of as the proper way to salute the flag was not adopted until 1942, when it was apparent that we needed to abandon what was known as “the Bellamy Pledge.” The Bellamy pledge started in the late 19th century, and unfor-

tunately was a dead ringer for the same motion used

by Nazis to show their allegiance to the Fuhrer.

Removing one’s hat and placing one’s hand over one’s heart (or a standard military salute for currently serving or former military personnel) quickly became our symbol of appreciation for the flag and all “for which it stands.”

When it came to women, back in the day they were

I “abstained due to conscience,” and I understandably as well as rightfully made a lot of people mad. I was the Associated Student Body President at my Left Coast high school, and had been radicalized to the point that I was deeply ashamed of my country. I used such words as “sick” to refer to America, and would have actually been thrilled if it had been destroyed. Then

on Flag Day didn’t put their hand over their heart was due to oversight or ignorance. One older vet at the Museum maintains that “[t]hey are just not taught to anymore.” That could very well be true, but here is my request for anyone who even marginally loves the Stars and Stripes: take a moment to learn how and why we touch our hearts when we collectively speak to

I had a transformational experience with our Savior, and one of the things that took awhile to bloom was a sense of love for my country, the Constitution, and those who shed their blood for me. They died so that I could be an idiot if I chose to, and it was one of the most profound privileges of my life to live amongst them in Baghdad for three years in order to begin to say “Thank you.”

a piece of cloth that once upon a time I would have rather burned. I think you might find that you will stand taller and your shoulders will be more squared away, and that is always a good thing.

Bellamy Pledge prior to 1942

not required to remove their hats, due to the fact that hat pins were still in use. These days Emily Post says that women should remove hats if they resemble baseball caps, otherwise other types of hats may stay put if you are a gal.

There was a time in my life when I mirrored the actions of a former U.S. president during public ceremonies involving flags, and stood with my hands folded in front of me during the Pledge or the national anthem.

I imagine that some of the reason that a significant amount of people present

Ali Elizabeth Turner Athens Now Information & Inspiration 256-468-9425 ali@athensnowal.com Website: www.athensnowal.com

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All Things Soldier

Healing With Honor

by Ali Elizabeth Turner Athens Now spends a fair amount of time in this column discussing the prospects and possibilities for true wholeness after traumatic events, as a service to our troops and first responders. Doing so is another way of our saying “Thank you” for all the risks you take to keep us safe both here and abroad. It is so important for everyone to know, especially soldiers, that there is documented proof of complete, drugfree recovery from the fallout of war, and I am always glad when I learn about new resources that can be of lasting help.

One of the things at which vets chafe is having to “talk, talk, talk” in a standard therapeutic setting about their problems or the scenarios which caused them, es-

pecially to someone who has no clue (outside the realm of the theoretical) what soldiers go through long after a war is over.

That is why when vets who have faced down and triumphed over their own demons band together to help other vets, there is just more impact, and it is often much quicker.

Their triumph serves to extend an invitation to police officers, firefighters, EMTs, Emergency Dispatchers, and others to come and “heal with honor,” and that is why I am so pleased to talk about Warriors Heart.

Warriors Heart is a movement, a facility, and a community. It is located at a gorgeous ranch near San Antonio, TX, and the site itself is one of the powerful components to jump start healing.

The sheer beauty of the place, designed to be like a well-appointed hunting lodge, has its own therapeutic power. It is co-

Vietnam Veterans of America (Chapter 511)

$7

July 17th

11am - 1pm and 5pm-7pm

Musical Entertainment • 5-7pm 17915 W Elm St • Athens, Alabama • 256-232-0029 Page 4

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founded by Josh Lannon, a successful entrepreneur who himself has beat alcohol addiction and has started other treatment facilities, and Tom Spooner, a vet with PTSD who knew that vets and first responders needed their own exclusive place to deal with their very specific issues.

the power to traumatize.

I have a dear friend, a ‘Nam vet who wrote the introduction for my book, who went through EMDR about five years ago, and it changed his life. I was with him about 25 years ago when he had a PTSD episode, and it brings my heart great joy to know that healing is at last his.

Warriors Heart also understands the need for good nutrition, body work and massage, exercise, healing spiritually, massage, and EMDR, which stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprogramming. Briefly, our brains are so amazing that if we are re-presented with the memories that cause PTSD incidents simultaneously with visual stimuli such as the rapid eye movement needed to gaze at sunlight dancing through leaves on a breezy day, the brain essentially creates a modified memory that no longer has

Warriors Heart is run by professionals and is certified by the State of Texas.

Treatment is covered by most insurance programs, including Tri-Care. They also have a specific program for older vets who “fell through the cracks” due to the fact that very little was understood about the assault on the brain and heart when they were fresh home from the battlefield decades ago.

For more information, go to warriorsheart.com, or call 844-448-2567 24/7.

Warriors of all kinds, healing for your heart and the rest of you is waiting.

June 16 - July 6, 2017

The Limestone Health Facility Spotlight On Cheryl Blakely Barksdale

by Ali Elizabeth Turner Cheryl Blakely Barksdale was born in September of 1953. She graduated from Athens Bible School, and her daddy worked at Flanagan Lumber. In 1974, she married Wayne Barksdale, who spent most of his career working at PPG in Huntsville.

For her part, Cheryl ran a day care service from her home for 25 years. “I am still in touch with lots of the kids,” she said, and added, “The kiddos are having kiddos, and I am a grandma to a zillion.”

Cheryl lost her husband, lives with their daughter, and when I met her, she had just found out that she was going to be able to go home the next day.

She had been at Limestone Health Facility for three months, and while

she was greatly pleased with all the care she had received, she was more than ready to go home.

While we were in the day room, staff and residents alike came in to wish her well, give her a gift, or wave from the glass outside the room.

Cheryl said that she had been treated just like family. “The food has been wonderful, the care has been wonderful, and every little thing that you need—you’ve got it!” She also had a roommate who was also going through physical rehab and has become a bosom buddy. They were due to be released the same day, and have promised to stay in touch.

Cheryl’s daughter tells her, “You have not

looked this good in years.” Cheryl says that the therapy has been holistic, and has really helped her.

While Wayne was still alive, the Barksdales fellowshipped at Eastside Church of Christ, then Jackson Drive Church of Christ, and their church life was very important to all of them. I asked Cheryl what her favorite hymn was, and she told me a title I had never heard: “When All Of God’s Singers Get Home.” Her favorite scripture is “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways, acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths,” better known as Proverbs 3:56. Her favorite book in the Bible is Psalms, and we moved on to the topic of her other favorites.

Her favorite “Blue.”

color?

Her favorite food to cook? “Spaghetti with a thick meat sauce.” She also made fried peach

June 16 - July 6, 2017

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pies for Jiffy for about three years.

Her favorite actress?

Maureen O’Hara. We talked about Maureen’s movies with “the Duke,” and how “they just don’t make ‘em like that anymore.” It took awhile for us to remember the title of “The Quiet Man,” which is one of their most famous.

Favorite “Reagan.”

President?

Biggest change in her lifetime? “The Internet.”

We talked about the fact that in our homes when we were growing up we had encyclopedias, both World Book and the Encyclopedia Britannica, and now all we have to do is “google” something and we can find it.

Best advice to young people?

“Be careful what you do and look out for others.” Good words from a woman with a grateful heart.

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Calendar of Events The 11th Annual Elk River Boat Party Saturday, July 1st

The annual Elk River Boat Party will be held on Saturday, July 1st, and will go from 3pm until dark. Live music will be provided by Kozmic Mama, and free koozies listing the sponsors will be passed out by hosts Mike Jackson and Bridgett Browning at the end of the evening. Kids can go water skiing, ski boarding, and the AL Marine Police as well as the Rescue Squad will be on duty, watching out for everyone.

Directions to the Boat Party: The only way to get to the party is by boat, and the directions are as follows: from the Tennessee River, go north on the Elk River and under Lee Hi Bridge (U.S. 72 bridge). Turn left into Anderson Creek and the party is on the right. The nearest boat launch is the Lee Hi Bridge boat launch.

For more information, go to 11th Annual Elk River Boat Party on Facebook and then get yourself to the celebration, even if you have to hitch a ride!

Premier Women's Organization & Food Pantry First Saturday of Each Month

Prayer • Elderly Assistance • Feed The Hungry Clothes • Scholarships • Empowering Women Volunteers Wanted & Needed Call for Details -256.233.5995 Meeting Time: First Saturday of Each Month at 1:30pm Food pantry open now. wewoa.org • E-Mail: wew5995@gmail.com

Gardening Questions Answered Every Tuesday

Limestone County Master Gardeners Association (LCMGA) is available every Tuesday and the first Saturday of every month at Athens Limestone Public Library from 10am - 2pm to answer gardening questions.

SilverSneaker™ Stability class Every Thursday

11:30am – 12:15pm. This class will meet every Thursday at East Limestone Senior Center at 25820 Nick Davis Rd. SilverSneaker™ Stability is a group exercise class designed specifically to keep participants “safe on their feet”. This class will include standing and walking exercises that will be beneficial in decreasing the risk of falling. Chairs are encouraged for warm-up and cool-down only. Donations for the class are accepted. For additional information, call Janet at 256-614-3530 or email at jhunt9155@gmail.com.

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Breanna’s BBQ Fundraiser June 16th

Sheriff’s Arena, Hwy 99, Athens. Breanna Smith, wife of Deputy Justin Smith, is battling Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Insurance will not cover part of the treatment cost in Vanderbilt. They must raise $9000 in advance to receive the treatment. $12 plates include: ½ chicken, baked beans, slaw, roll, drink and dessert! Lunch: 11am 1pm or Dinner: 4pm - 7pm. Tickets Available: Limestone County Sheriff’s Office (256-232-0111) or Limestone County Commission (256-233-6400).

Athens Saturday Market June 24th, July 1st & July 8th

409 South Green Street inAthens. 8AM-12PM with local producers, growers and entertainment. www.athenssaturdaymarket.com

Play Outside Day July 1st

Families everywhere are encouraged to get outside the first Saturday of every month and play in public parks, enjoy trails, hit the waterways, explore greenspaces and just play! Limestone County offers over 20 trails to explore including walking, cycling, horseback riding and kayaking – perfect for all ages. For more information: 256-232-5411.

2nd Annual Pizza For A Cure with County for A Cure July 11th

Village Pizza of East Limestone. 15728 East Limestone Road, East Limestone. 11AM - 9PM. A portion of all sales from the Village Pizza of East Limestone will benefit the County for a Cure Relay for Life team. Gift Certificates will also be available to purchase. For faster service, call ahead and place your order 256-232-3388.

BBQ & Blues - a fundraising event to benefit the Mental Health Center of North Central Alabama July 20th

Supporting a great cause has never been this much fun. There will be plenty of great BBQ and the evening’s musical entertainment will be the award winning and internationally renowned, Microwave Dave and the Nukes. This is one of the best blues bands in the world! It is going to be an exciting evening – come out and join the fun! Our welcoming committee would love to meet you. You get to have a great time while supporting local mental health services in your community. Purchase your tickets or make a sponsorship online at www.mhcnca.org. If you have any questions, please call (256) 566-8530 or (256) 260-7325.

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June 16 - July 6, 2017

Special Feature

Premier Structures, Incorporated: Solar And The Future Of Construction

by Ali Elizabeth Turner Dan Mankins has been a part of Premier Structures, Incorporated since 2003, when the founders, Will and Helen Evans were both actively involved. Mr. Evans passed away in 2006, at which point Miss Helen asked Dan to manage PSI, and in 2012 he purchased the business. They are in their 31st year, and things are going well. However, they recently plunged into a project that they never expected – being a part of solar energy making a comeback and coming of age.

I was actually delivering papers to PSI when I saw a building permit displayed in the window, indicating that they were in the middle of a solar-panel project. Curious, I talked with Dan, and he decided it was time to tell PSI’s “Solar Story.” By way of background, solar energy has been a bit “iffy” since it was first introduced on a large scale in the mid-‘80s. The panels were not sturdy, the output was not that great, and enthusiasm for the concept declined. Dan actually lives in a subdivision in Elkmont that was originally designed to be solar powered, and at present, not one house has any functional type of solar unit producing energy. Then solar became somewhat part of a political football, as did reduction in power consumption in general. The whole

With regard to the grants, Dan said he’s seen a certain pattern, and he wants to pass this information on to the consumer. Back a few years ago, when solar was making a comeback, grants were plentiful and TVA was a little looser with the purse strings. The grants could be drying up, though, so if the possibility of “going solar” is building industry had to make adjustments in the way they insulated walls, as well as the kind of lighting they used.

They have gotten good at LED lighting installation and usage, and are also grateful that those ugly squiggly bulbs are a thing of the past.

Nevertheless, Dan will be the first to tell you that he was not at all interested in hearing the sales presentations of vendors who specialized in solar energy. “I had a pretty high level of sales resistance, but customers started asking about it and for it, and I knew I had to do research.” He discovered that much had changed since the ‘80s and ‘90s, and that solar was indeed coming into its own. However, it took sitting down with a man who worked for someone Dan trusted,

Cinemagic Theater in Athens recently was involved in a solar project. and having the opportunity to ask the toughest questions he could, that caused Dan to change his mind. He discovered that today’s solar panels are thicker, better, and now have a 25-year warranty. In addition, there were all kinds of grants available from the TVA. Dan also mentioned that the older he gets, the more the idea of being “energy independent” appeals to him as a business owner. He also mentioned that when he builds his next home for his family, it will include solar energy.

Dan also became aware of the fact that municipalities all across the country were taking a new look at solar and were implementing it into their city planning.

He also knew that in Elkmont, there is a thriving solar farm on Sandlin Road generating a considerable amount of power and sell-

June 16 - July 6, 2017

is confident that they will continue to improve as well as be more versatile, and more types of projects will be able to be solar based.

Solar electrical boxes at PSI

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ing it back to the grid. He decided to take the plunge and construct a solar installation in the shed on the back part of the PSI property. Dan had a specific goal in mind, and that was to eliminate PSI’s utility bill, which annually is six thousand dollars. They are on track to not only accomplish that goal, but the project will pay for itself in seven years.

Dan says he has become a “raving fan,” and he’s not alone. Cinemagic Theatre in Athens is installing some panels. He says, “It’s becoming collaborative, and there are projects also in Pulaski and Huntsville.” Dan also mentioned that the light poles all along Memorial Parkway are solar. The same is the case with the light poles at WalMart. He says “It’s the wave of the future.” He also knows that there are areas where the designs need some work, but

something you have considered either for a residential or commercial solar project, now is the time to come to PSI and have a serious sitdown with Dan to look at your options. He and his team will be more than happy to give you the help that only comes from experience.

Premier Structures Incorporated

2311 South Hine Street / P.O. Box 927 Athens, AL 35612 256-232-2092

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What Makes Ronnie Roll

“No Country For Average Joes”

by Ali Elizabeth Turner The concept of “the Average Joe” is generally one of affection in our culture. “Joe” is the guy who works hard and keeps his nose clean. He is not particularly exceptional or memorable, and doesn’t cause trouble.

Sounds like the model citizen, right? Not according to famed NFL Referee Ed Hochuili.

Mayor Ronnie heard Hochuili speak to a group of fellow mayors, and the ref challenged them all to be far more than Average Joes, especially in their role as the shepherds of their cities.

Hochuili draws from years of experience having to make calls that he knows will anger thousands of people. He also has had to get used to having a coach get in his face one moment, and then praise him the next, while the other coach is

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doing exactly the opposite. All of it, the calls as well as the accolades and/or pushback, is done in a split second because the game moves quickly and the clock is ticking.

Add to the pressure the fact that team owners level complaints, and it is easy to see why the Average Joe will only last about two seconds in Hochuili’s position.

What keeps Hochuili going is knowing that he has done his very best to be the statesman of the game, the one who makes principled calls that he believes are right.

He said that people, whether they are in leadership positions or not, will only be able to look back with either pride or regret, and all of it rests on whether or not they were willing to step up.

“We have to take any opportunity we can to

she is deadly, and the lion knows it. “That’s what we all need,” said Mayor Ronnie. One of the last challenges given to the group of mayors

by Ed Hochuili was to have the guts to ask for “constructive criticism.”

“That’s tough to do,” he said, and I agreed with him.

Famed NFL Referee Ed Hochuili and Mayor Ronnie Marks build people up,” said Mayor Ronnie. He illustrated his point by showing me an animal video of a bear cub being chased by a mountain lion. It is touch and go, as well as agonizing to watch, especially when it looks like the lion is going to eat the cub for lunch. Then, the

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cub waxes “ferocious” and begins to roar at the lion, who backs off and retreats. What isn’t shown until the very last is that the reason the lion goes away is not because of the cub’s convincing ferocity. It’s because the mama bear is standing on her hand legs behind the cub. She is silent, but

Mayor Ronnie was asked to attend the annual recital presented

by Kelly’s Studio of Dance, and was amazed at how hard the kids had rehearsed. Marie Trent, who is an alum of Kelly’s and is now dancing in NYC, flew down for the performance both to enjoy as well as to assist. Anyone who knows Kelly’s story knows that she “stepped up” so that young dancers could “step out.” Speaking of flying, Mayor Ronnie had also just learned that flying cars are actually happening in Japan. “It’s their Kitty Hawk,” he said, marveling that this is reality, and not science fiction.

The mayor looked at me and said, “We are coming up on budget season, but that is going to need to be the topic of another article.” “Oh joy,” I thought to myself. “Summertime, and the livin’ is NOT easy…” However, I know from experience that he actually enjoys getting it done, and doing it well. Then it was time to pray, and time for Ronnie to roll, so we did, and he did.

June 16 - July 6, 2017

Slinkard On Success

Limited Thinking Leads To Limited Lives

by D. A. Slinkard

D.A. Slinkard is the manager of the Athens Staples store Life as we know it is all about limits. There are coupon limits, speed limits, and even weight limits. Our world is so inundated with putting restrictions on what we can and cannot do, that too often this trickles over into other aspects of our lives. I’m not saying that all limits are a bad thing; but what I am saying, is that too many times we place limits on ourselves that prohibit us from living the life we were meant to have.

How many times have we said, “Oh I can’t do that,” and it never fails that our neurological design goes into overdrive to prove our theory correct. We put that limitation on ourselves, and our brain starts programming the rest of the results to ensure that what we say becomes truth.

It is almost as if that magic genie in a bottle says, “You say you cannot do this; your wish is my command.” What we find is that we cannot accomplish what we already told ourselves was impossible.

Now, I want you to rethink your ideology on this subject. What if you were to replace the word “can’t” with “can”?

What do you think would happen? Well, first you must believe that you can actually be successful and rid yourself of what we touched upon in the last article – that four-letter word fear. I am a firm believer that limited thinking leads to

June 16 - July 6, 2017

limited lives.

I want you to think about any historical figure who has achieved greatness.

You may have thought about Thomas Edison, Albert Einstein, and Martin Luther King Jr.; no matter who you thought about, the one common denominator for any of these individuals boils down to the way they think. Their outlook on life is what made the difference in their own life, let alone the millions of others they were able to impact.

Yet going back to the limits we place in life, I find that what separates an individual from achieving success and abundance, versus a life of lacking the basic necessities, comes down to their mentality. As children, we were all familiar with the Little Engine Who Could and the key concept was, “I think I can, I think I can, I think I can.” This is a great children’s story that seemingly gets left

behind as we mature into adults.

As a child, we are taught to believe we can do great things, which is a life with no limits; but the older we get, the realities of life become known to us. You know what I mean – the ones that suggest a poor boy from the country cannot grow up to lead a country, or that a shy teenager cannot blossom into a public official with the ability to lead an entire state. The world around us is filled with such negativity, but then I am reminded of the phrase “thinking outside the box.”

That phrase is one that has been around forever, yet I believe is the most misunderstood sentence in our society. When we think outside the box, we are no longer thinking about those things that confine us to thinking inside the box. We take the limitations that society has put on us, and we break through those

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limitations. Yet we hear this phrase very sparingly to suggest that only a few are able to break the limits life has put on them.

We put a limit on speaking about people breaking limits.

ing limits on Him. What if the miracles He has waiting for your life are being blocked because you are limiting Him and yourself? Find it hard to believe? People are guilty of this every day.

If this sounds like you, then welcome to a new level of achievement. You cannot solve an issue until you know what the problem is. If you are guilty of placing limitations on your life, this is the first step in breaking out of the box. This is how you go from having a good life to having a GREAT life.

We have all seen the person who has everything going for them but for whatever reason, they just cannot get out of their own way. They become their own worst nightmare, preventing themselves from obtaining abundance in their life. Maybe this is you. I dare you to take the limitations off your thinking and enjoy the unlimited potential of everything life has to offer.

What limitations are you restricting yourself with today? Maybe you’re restricting God and plac-

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From the Alabama Veterans’ Museum

“Faith And Courage” An Exhibit Honoring the Service and Heroism of U. S. Military Chaplains In World Wars I & II

by Sandra Thompson, Director, Alabama Veterans’ Museum We have a very special display coming to the museum that honors a part of the military that is overlooked by many, but plays an important role in the lives of our service members. The exhibit, “Faith and Courage,” recognizes the contributions of U.S. Military Chaplains. According to the Department of Defense, the purpose of chaplains is to “accommodate religious needs, to provide religious and pastoral care, and to advise commanders on the complexities of religion with regard to its personnel and mission, as appropriate. As military members, chaplains are uniquely positioned to assist Service members, their families, and other authorized personnel with the challenges of military service as advocates of religious, moral, and spiritual well being and resiliency.”

In the words of President Harry S. Truman, “Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices.” This exhibit honors these exceptional individuals and attempts to extend the value of their service and sacrifice by

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keeping their memories alive as an example for later generations.

This presentation of stories of Chaplain Heroism includes text and photographs from World Wars I & II. Much of the information was collected with the help of the Army Chaplain Museum and the Navy Chaplain Archives, and artifacts were collected from all over the world.

“Faith and Courage,” the exhibit at Washington National Cathedral for the

2004 opening of the World War II Memorial, was an expansion of the WWII section of this exhibit. The opening service for the dedication of the memorial was held at the cathedral with the chiefs of all the U. S. Military Chaplain Corps in attendance. The exhibit has received awards and recognition from the Tennessee Association of Museums, the Army Chaplain Corps, and Navy Chaplain Corps Chiefs of Chaplains.

“Faith and Courage” has also been featured at the Celebrate Freedom Festival in Pigeon Forge, TN; the American Museum of Science & Energy in Oak Ridge, TN; the Army Chaplain Corps at Fort Bragg, NC; the Secret City Festival in Oak Ridge, TN; the 35th Anniversary Salute to Veterans at the Parthenon in Nashville, TN; and

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many other public venues.

The exhibit is based at the Tennessee Museum of Aviation in Sevierville. “Faith and Courage” was developed and designed by Tom Walker, former exhibit designer for the American Museum of Science and Energy in Oak Ridge, TN. I asked Tom why it was important to have a display on chaplains and he replied, “I’ve been involved in the design & development of all kinds of exhibits for nearly 30 years, including science, art, culture, history, military, and kids’ exhibits. I had never really thought about military chaplains until I was sitting in church one morning in September of 2000. The idea hit me out of the blue, like a ton of bricks. By the end of the service I knew what needed to be done.

“The experience of developing ‘Faith and Courage’ over the years has been full of things that could only be described as miracles. Apparently the man upstairs wanted a chaplain exhibit and paved the way for it to happen time after time — things happened against astronomical odds and couldn’t reasonably be explained away as coincidence. You could say that I’m only following orders from the top. I should probably record the details of some of these events at some point — they truly are astounding.” Perhaps Tom will share some of these astounding details while he is here. “Faith and Courage” will be on display until approximately July 31; so please don’t miss out on this wonderful display.

June 16 - July 6, 2017

PlayAction Sports

Sports In The Good Ol' Summertime

by Tim Lambert email: playactionsports@hotmail.com Tune in for the PlayAction Sports Update, three times each weekday on 1080 AM WKAC. Visit us online at www.pasnetwork.net!

Welcome to the initial installment of PlayAction Sports. We’ll try to keep you up to date on school, youth and amateur sports every month from the Limestone County area (including Lauderdale County High School and James Clemens High School). We also invite you to visit our website online at www.pasnetwork.net and listen to our updates every weekday on the air at 1080 AM WKAC. Local teams made deep runs into the postseason in the spring. Ardmore’s softball team got all the way to the state tournament before having their year ended at the hands of Moody. It was Stephen Baugh’s first year ever to coach the sport.

The Tigers’ baseball team also had a good run, reaching the state semifinals where they lost to Russellville.

Athens Bible School’s baseball team also made the semifinals before they were swept by Decatur Heritage.

Elkmont’s baseball team got farther into the postseason than any other team in school history, falling in round three to Colbert Heights.

Congratulations go out to local athletes who earned postseason honors since the school year ended. The boys’ All-State soccer team included Tanner’s Jose Moreno on the first team. Fellow Rattler David Pizano and James Clemens’ Duncan Blair made sec-

June 16 - July 6, 2017

ond team. Athens Bible School's Vance Dutton was honorable mention along with Tanner's Tyler Keenum, James Clemens' Zachary Johnson and West Limestone's Tanner and Reed Walker.

On the girls’ side, James Clemens' Kiersten Thorum and Aubrie McFall made first team of the 7A team. The Lady Jets’ Rachel Bradberry was second team and Nic Guay made honorable mention. East Limestone's Stefani Fleagle was added to the 4A-5A second team while fellow Lady Indians’ Emily Edelman and Ameleigh Bippen were honorable mention.

In 1A-3A, Tanner's Gabby Torres made second team along with Athens Bible School's Carson Fielder. Honorable mention included Tanner's Areli Mendoza and Corina Martinez and Emily

Watson of ABS. James Clemens' Garrett Brown and Jordan Anderson were tapped for second team on the 7A All-State baseball team; Tommy Crider made honorable mention. Athens High's Jacob McNairy was on the 6A first team, Bryson Kirk was second team. Ardmore's Patrick Music was named to the 5A second team while Tanner Eaves received honorable mention. Lauderdale County's Sloan Wilson and Jake Maner

Tanner's Jose Moreno www.athensnowal.com

were on the 3A honorable-mention list along with Elkmont’s Jackson Cook. Kenneth Adams and Mitchell Etheridge of ABS made the Class 1A first team, Hayden Nix was honorable mention while Coach of the Year went to Athens Bible School's Bill Murrell.

All-State softball teams were also announced.

James Clemens' Shelby Booker was on the 7A first team. Athens High's Mary Greg Anderson made the 6A second team while teammate Gracie Green was honorable mention. Ardmore's Karla Hice was on the 5A first team and L.B. Smith earned honorable mention. West Limestone's Breanna Tarpley was named to the 4A first team and Baily Browning was honorable mention. The 3A second team included Lauderdale County's Morgan White, while Cassidy Hudson made honorable mention along with Clements' Abby Craig and Lele Anderson.

Elkmont and Tanner both have new football coaches going into next season. The Red Devils promoted Duane Wales,

who was defensive coordinator at Clements for 10 years beginning in 1992 before serving at Ardmore from 20032008. He has been on the varsity staff at Elkmont since 2009 and was middle school coach the last two seasons. After the departure of Tanner head football coach Laron White to Sparkman, the school hired Maurice Belser to take over. Coach Belser and Coach White had been teammates on Alabama’s 1992 national championship team.

A few Limestone County coaches will be stepping down from their positions. Resignations include Chad Drake as head boys’ basketball coach at East Limestone and Ethan Whiteside as head softball coach at West Limestone. Ardmore also loses John South as girls’ golf coach, Sherri Graviet as assistant softball coach and Stephen Baugh as middle school girls’ basketball coach. West Limestone's Jordan Paul transferred to Tanner.

Former Clemson player Spencer Region will also be joining Ardmore as a volunteer assistant football coach.

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Clean and Green

Xeriscaping: Landscaping for Water Conservation

by Lynne Hart, Executive Coordinator - Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful

I’ve lived in Athens for 17 years, and it was most difficult for me to adjust to the hot, humid summers. I had to learn a whole new way of gardening after just about everything I planted failed to survive my Southern brown thumb.

Over the years, my position has brought me into contact with people and websites that shed a great deal of light on where I was going wrong. I remained in my Northeast Ohio garden mode in my thinking and that didn’t work here.

Summers in Cleveland are not so hot and humidity levels are lower. There is not nearly the amount of clay in the soils of Northeast Ohio as we find here.

So I had to do some research to learn what would and would not grow in my new home city.

I have written articles on the importance of choosing native plants for landscaping, much of which I have applied with great success.

Recently, I was introduced to another type of landscaping that takes into consideration the amount of water available, or lack of water.

It is called xeriscaping.

Xeriscaping is a method of using landscaping and horticultural strategies that minimize water use. This method can help property owners reduce their water use by one-third, which is very helpful in droughtprone areas such as the Tennessee Valley!

According to the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, plant selection in a xeriscaped garden may vary

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from area to area, but there are 7 basic principles that can be applied anywhere: •Group plants by similar water use, as well as appearance.

•If sites are dry, choose as many plants with low water requirements as possible, such as some of the ornamental grasses, barberries,

tems. For example, use a sprinkler that will target the areas that require water and do not overspray onto rocky or paved areas.)

local nursery, garden department, or Extension Service for suggestions. You can also research native plant varieties online.

•Prune, fertilize, and divide plants regularly.

•Group plants with similar water needs together. For example, group the vegetables requiring more water together in the garden to make the most of your watering.

Before you begin, you will want to assess your garden site. By looking at the property, you may find ways of

•Choose moisture-loving plants for wet, poorly drained sites and droughttolerant plants for dry, sunny areas.

•Select and plant droughttolerant varieties that require minimal amounts of water.

Trees

Chinese hollies, and junipers.

•Reduce the amount of turf grass (lawn) area.

Turf grass is the largest water user in landscaping. Use it only where necessary or consider some of the newer, drought-resistant types.

•Use plenty of organic material (peat moss, pine bark, compost) in preparing the soil.

•Use about 4 inches (no more) of mulch (wood chips, shredded bark). Mulch reduces water use by slowing evaporation and it adds organic matter to the soil and helps prevent erosion.

•Use efficient watering sys-

using water-saving landscape techniques. Look for dry or rocky areas as well as areas where water might pool. You also want to note the amount of sun each area receives.

Once you have assessed the area, select plants and shrubs that do well in those conditions and group them together. Plant selection will be one of the most important factors in whether your garden will survive long term. Here are tips: •Use only plant varieties that are well adapted to your locality and soil conditions.

The wrong variety of plant may require greater amounts of fertilizer and water just to stay alive. Check with your

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Trees are also vulnerable to our weather conditions.

When selecting trees, be sure to select species that do well in this area. Some good selections would include oaks, ginkgo, hackberry, Southern magnolia, Chinese pistache, American holly, golden-rain tree, and pines.

Turf Grass In most of our neighborhoods, the lawn (turf grass) is the most prominent vegetation. A beautifully manicured, green lawn can be the pride and joy of any homeowner. Turf grass will withstand a rough and tumble game of football, absorb heat, and control erosion.

Turf grass will also quickly suffer under drought conditions, and will consume more water than most all other plants.

Therefore, the question that should be asked is, “Do I have too much grass?” Look at your property critically. Are there shady areas where grass is not doing well? Do you have grass growing among and around your shrubs?

Do you have large patches of grass just because you can’t think of anything else to do with your property?

Consider replacing turf grass in areas difficult to maintain with organic mulch or ground cover. This will reduce the work involved in trying to maintain those areas and will reduce the need for heavy watering.

Be sure to properly care for the turf grass you do have.

Check with your local Extension Office for information on proper fertilizer and lime application.

Rain Barrels Adding rain barrels to your landscaping will also help conserve water. Our friend, Rhonda Britton, from Water Wheels is an expert on this topic. Look for a more indepth article on this topic in a future issue.

Happy Xeriscaping!

(256) 233-8728 KALBCares@gmail.com www.KALBCares.com

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June 16 - July 6, 2017

Cooking with Kimberly

Old Fashioned ‘Nana Puddin’

by Kimberly Hobbs This was Lil’ Dottie’s famous recipe. She would beat the most beautiful egg whites on a plate and didn’t lose any! Well I didn't inherit that gift, and if you ask my sister Deneka she would say, “You didn't inherit the ‘nana puddin’ either!” That's a sibling rivalry that remains to be settled.

If you enjoy this recipe, I do hands-on classes. Email me at Kimberly.hobbs@ymail.com

What you will need: 2 c whole milk 1 c white sugar 2 tbsp flour 4 large eggs, separated

2 tsp clear vanilla extract 2 boxes of Nabisco Nilla Wafers (My sister won't use anything but)

4 Bananas

What you will do:

Pour the milk and sugar into a double boiler this is too prevent the custard from burning, but I simply use a saucepan.

Once the milk comes to a slow boil, pour the flour into a bowl and introduce a little of the custard mix; it will look like a paste. Add to the hot liquid. Let come to a slow boil again being careful not to let boil over.

Meanwhile, separate the eggs – you will use the whites for your meringue. Add a little of the hot custard to the egg yolks and mix to prevent coddling of the eggs. Introduce back to the custard mix. You must babysit the custard until it's thickened up and then remove from the heat. Add the vanilla.

In a casserole dish, add a small amount of custard to the bottom of the dish.

Arrange cookies and bananas, then custard on top; repeat until you have used all of the custard.

Beat the egg whites in a bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of sugar and beat until stiff peaks form. Top the pudding with the meringue. Bake in a 350⁰F oven just until the meringue turns a golden brown.

June 16 - July 6, 2017

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The Millennial Mind

You’re Not A Hero

by Rosemary Dewar domination. the villains.

Self-preservation is one of the strongest forces that drives the way people eat, act, and survive.

Before narcissism manifests itself, two characteristics exhibit themselves first: envy and vanity.

This is the common chaos with which every human battles. The ability to control such urges is necessary to stabilize the social structure that surrounds the individual. As soon as the individual prioritizes their desires over the needs of the structure, stability begins to deteriorate.

Envy can plague the individual over the smallest thing. Without selfcontrol, an individual will find ways to justify reasons to pursue and obtain the desired object at all costs. The result is vanity. An individual will elevate themselves inappropriately. As soon as they do, the well-being of those around them is

They

are

There are few people willing to put themselves through levels of suffering to preserve others. Simply having opposition doesn't make one a hero. What one is capable of sacrificing determines one’s merit.

The Judeo-Christian perspective asserts that vanity is a characteristic of corruption. It is never satisfied for long, and will soon consume all it touches. Unchecked vanity becomes narcissism where one emotionally starves oneself to the point one’s soul dies. compromised. The willingness to sacrifice someone else's state of security to fortify one's own is pure selfishness.

Things that humans usually attempt to preserve are

either other’s perceptions of them or the state of security they currently hold.

They usually surrender a level of liberty in exchange for the security they desire. As U.S. Founding Father Benjamin Franklin stated, "Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety."

That type of “sacrifice” isn't heroism, it’s manipulation. Those that sacrifice fundamental principles for “the sake of the greater good” are persuaded by

their own vanity.

We are surrounded by depictions of mythical heroes like Superman, Wonder Woman and Thor.

They became more relatable with characters like Batman, Ironman, and the X-men. They are admired for their fictional acts of valor and sacrifice. Their suffering isn't aimed to position themselves for worship. That's why they hide themselves. Those that antagonize the heroes are dead-set on their own selfadmiration, worship, and

Author F. Scott Fitzgerald said, “Show me a hero, and I'll write you a tragedy.” Someone who is willing to waive selfpreservation, not just once but repeatedly, is heroic. Something has to die in order for something better, stronger, and more beautiful to take its place.

The same must be emulated within a social structure, even a small one such as a family. The truly vulnerable are to be preserved at the willing expense of the formidable. Any process that results in more detriment than virtuous success ought to be rejected. If ignored, societal decay is inevitable.

If one is going to attempt to be a hero, one ought to learn to sacrifice oneself.

To expect it of someone else is foolish, and to demand it is fiendish.

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June 16 - July 6, 2017

Cover Story

Honeysuckle Café: Worth The Drive To Rogersville

by Ali Elizabeth Turner

continued from page 1

Lee Street, had always felt to me like the “heart” of Rogersville, much like a kitchen being the heart of a home.

Then its owners decided to retire, and boy, could you feel the absence of a place that served “Southern comfort food.” Well, happily, those days are now over, and I am pleased to announce that the Honeysuckle Café is up and hummin’!

are daily specials along the lines of a “Meat-and-three,” with Southern classics such as “hoecakes,” fried green tomatoes, black-eyed peas, pimento cheese, and hash brown casserole. Signature sandwiches include “the Paw Paw,” a classic grilled

She worked in the ER, has had supervisory positions, and genuinely loved what she did.

However, there came a time when she and her husband just knew it was time to make a change, take a risk, and open a restaurant,

OK, you say, this is good news, but how’s the food?

In a word, “worth the drive from Athens, or anyplace else for that matter.” Before Honeysuckle opened, which has always been her dream. They looked “everywhere,” and finally ended up in Rogersville, ironically, not all that far from Beverly’s ancestors’ homestead farm. They opened on April 18, and on both of my visits they have been happily busy. “We have always loved LuVici’s in Athens, and wanted to do something similar in Rogersville,”

I was told there was a good chance that they would be interested in advertising.

Once open, I hopped in the truck, headed west, and decided to have lunch. I have eaten a cold lunch there, as well as a hot supper; I expect that the Honeysuckle Café is going to get Rogersville revvin’ because both meals, while being completely different from each other, were truly delicious. There are homemade potato chips with a queso dipping sauce, and chicken salad. There

June 16 - July 6, 2017

cheese named for Honeysuckle owner Beverly Scott’s dad, and the Angry Rooster, a shredded buffalo chicken and American cheese grilled sandwich. Desserts include Mama’s Best Banana Pudding, the chocolate chip mug cookie, and special daily desserts. They can hardly keep up with the demand for the banana pudding.

Beverly has cooked for family, friends and co-workers all her life. She also spent more than 30 years as a nurse at Athens-Limestone Hospital.

restaurant is the staff. Are they happy? Does it show? How do they treat the guests and each other? The Honeysuckle Café staff is mostly young, Beverly allows “no cussin’ or fussin’,” and you can tell that they genuinely enjoy working there. I also appreciated learning that they gather together for prayer at the beginning of the shift, although it’s not mandatory. This certainly gets things off to a good start, now that “putting love in the food” is no longer thought of as something corny. “I wanted people to come in here and feel like they were eating a meal I made for them in my own kitchen, and that they were welcome here,” she said.

One of the most enjoyable features of the Honeysuckle

and admonitions, and they are literally a “conversation piece.” Beverly told me that her “son has a saying for everything, and I started writing them down.” The wall art is recorded on every imaginable type of surface, and most are framed. Then they are hung with care, and even decorate the restrooms! People from out-of-state who are staying at Joe Wheeler State Park have come to the Honeysuckle Café for the food as well as a cultural immersion experience, and it’s not unusual to see someone read a saying on the wall and chuckle.

Beverly wanted Athens Now readers to know that she is indebted to her family for all the hard work they put into getting the Honeysuckle transformed into a cozy café. “It took about five months, and there were times I thought we would never get it done, but here we are because of them,” she said. Come and taste her time honored recipes in an environment where “the secret ingredient is always love.”

Honeysuckle Café Beverly said.

As someone who spent years working in the hospitality business, one of the first things I notice when I go to a

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is the wall art. All of the walls and down the service hall are covered with sayings, maxims, scriptures and just plain common sense observations

1609 Lee Street Rogersville, AL, 35652 Phone: 256-607-7075 Hours: Tue-Sun, 11-8 Facebook: The Honeysuckle Café Page 15

Health and Fitness

Beat The Heat

by Janet Hunt

Janet Hunt is a Certified Personal Trainer and can be reached at 256-614-3530 to schedule an appointment.

It is hot out! And it is going to stay this way for a few months. Here are some reminders of ways to “beat the heat.”

Drink more fluids (non-alcoholic) than usual, no matter what your activity level is. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. If your physician limits the amount of fluid you drink or has you on water pills, ask him/her how much you should drink during this hot weather. Limit your alcoholic drinks or drinks with large amounts of sugar because they can actually cause you to lose more body fluid. Avoid very cold drinks because they may cause stomach cramps.

Stay indoors and, if at all possible, stay in an air-conditioned place. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to the public library or a coffee shop – even a few

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hours spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you go back into the heat. During an especially hot period, call the health department to see if there are any heat-relief shelters in your area.

Electric fans may provide comfort, but when the temperature is in the high 90s, fans will not prevent heatrelated illness. Taking a cool shower or bath or moving to an air-conditioned place is a much better way to cool off.

The best clothing to wear during the heat is lightweight, light-colored, loosefitting clothing. If you are outdoors and in the sun, never wear dark clothing and always wear a hat.

NEVER leave any person or pet in a closed, parked vehicle.

Any of us at any time can suf-

fer from heat-related illness; some people are at greater risk than others and need to be checked on regularly: •Babies and young children •People aged 65 or older •People who have a mental illness •Those who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure Check on adults at risk at least twice a day and closely watch them for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

Infants and young children need much more frequent watching.

If you must be out in the heat, cut down on exercise. If you must exercise, drink two to four glasses of cool, nonalcoholic fluids each hour. A sports beverage can replace the salt and minerals you lose while sweating. But, if you are on a low-salt diet,

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talk with your doctor before drinking a sports drink. Rest often in shady areas. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Put on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher (the most effective products say “broad

spectrum” or “UVA/UVB protection” on their labels).

For more information regarding heat-related illnesses, talk to your health care provider.

June 16 - July 6, 2017

Cover Story

Athens Limestone Hospital And Valley Internal Medicine: Practicing With Distinction

by Ali Elizabeth Turner continued from page 1

rocketing costs, and most of them have at least a measure of validity. Thankfully, AthensLimestone Hospital and Valley Internal Medicine have been involved in a pilot program designed to cut costs while insuring quality of care, and just recently it garnered them some industry distinction from the Center for Medicare/Medicaid Services at an awards ceremony held last week in Baltimore, MD. The purpose of the program is to reduce the 30-day readmission rate of Medicare patients to the ER for the same chronic condition. It is the brain-child of Athens-Limestone Hospital COO/CFO Randy Comer, has had Valley Internal Medicine’s Dr. Sasha Acelajado functioning as the pilot physician, and ALH’s Helen McWhorter as Care Coordinator (a role that involves being a combination of coach, accountability partner, and patient liaison). “Because ER visits are the most expensive, and some Medicare patients look upon the ER in the same way as a regular doctor’s office, this has been a way to reach out to patients with chronic care and transitional care needs, and it has been effective. We have been able to reduce their ER visits by 50%, from 24% to 12%, which is huge,” said Dr. Acelajado.

Athens-Limestone Hospital was the first in the Huntsville

June 16 - July 6, 2017

Hospital system to try the program, and the plan is to implement it throughout the system.

Here’s how it works. “Dr. A.” (which is what her patients call her) comes up with an individualized plan for a patient with a chronic condition such as diabetes or heart disease. It could involve any number of things such as the timing of medication, diet, exercise, keeping a compliance log, etc., and she makes sure the patient understands what their responsibilities are. Then Helen McWhorter will give regularly scheduled calls to provide patient support as well as answer any questions. Ms. McWhorter went through a coaching certification program, and as far as Dr. A. is concerned, Helen is the heartbeat of the program, and the biggest reason it has been such a success. The patients also have access to a nurse hotline 24 hours a day.

“Just today, we were able to squeeze in an appointment for a patient who is in the program, and without it she would have ended up in the ER,” said Dr. A. One of the supporting organizations for the program is the National Rural Accountable Care Consortium, which helps member hospital systems achieve the Medicare goals of having

have a person who can be the well-organized link between the patient, the physician, and the hospital, you have better outcomes, lower costs, less red tape, and everybody wins.

Valley Internal Medicine has two physicians: Dr. Shanna Ndong and Dr. A. They have been at their practice here in Athens for about a year, and have extensive experience both here in the states, and Helen McWhorter

85% of payments being tied to quality and value. In addition to providing training, the NRACC provides data to identify cost-saving opportunities, implement the necessary IT structure, modify clinic workflow to address care gaps, promote evidence-based medicine, and measure patient satisfaction at the point of care. Essentially, if you Dr. Shanna Ndong

Dr. A. has previously practiced in the Philippines. Their clinic is located just north and east of the main hospital entrance, and the address is 710 W. Hobbs, which is the corner Sanders and W. Hobbs.

Dr. Sasha Acelajado

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Recently we chatted at lunch, and with regard to how the clinic is run, Dr. Ndong said, “We do things a bit differently.

If at all possible, we’ll squeeze in a patient for an urgent care situation on the same day, and usually we are able schedule a normal appointment within a week. We don’t want to turn anyone away.” They have adult patients of all ages, and while they have a number of female patients, Dr. A. said, “We also have our fair share of men.”

Both doctors like the challenge of helping patients with complicated medical situations, and routinely get referrals from other physicians. This means that they may need to take more time with each patient, but in doing so they are able to solve some longstanding problems and give better care. They also enjoy helping patients reduce the number of medications they are taking, if at all possible, and the pilot program has helped with that.

Congratulations to AthensLimestone Hospital and Valley Internal Medicine, and may this partnership flourish for many years to come.

Valley Internal Medicine

710 W. Hobbs, Athens, AL 35611 256-262-6380 Hours: Mon-Thurs 7am4:30 pm Closed 12-1 for lunch, and all day Friday

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Learning As A Lifestyle

Summer Concert

by Wanda Campbell Center for Lifelong Learning - 121 South Marion Street, Athens, AL 35611 - 256-233-8262 Athens State’s Center for Lifelong Learning is pleased to announce that tickets are on sale now for “The Story Behind The Song: Songwriters Showcase,” which will be presented on Friday, June 23, at 6:30 p.m. at the Alabama Center for the Arts, 122 Second Avenue, Decatur, Alabama. Tickets are $15 each.

The Songwriters Showcase features Nashville songwriters Phillip White, Monty Holmes, and Mark Narmore performing an array of awardwinning songs that they have written for Country Music’s Top Recording Artists. Each songwriter will also talk about what was happening in their lives that inspired the song to “come to life” and how they worked with the singers and recording artists to tell the story. White, Holmes, and Narmore have each received numerous awards and accolades, including ACM Song of the Year (Phillip White), Songs from Grammy-Award Winning Country Album of the Year (Monty Holmes), and Most Played Country Song on the Radio (Mark Narmore).

Phillip White is an Alabama native who has spent the last 20+ years writing songs for some of the biggest artists in the business. George Strait, Luke Bryan, Chris Ledoux, Vince Gill, Bonnie Tyler, Scotty McCreery, Darius Rucker, Wynonna, Reba, Blake Shelton, Rascal Flatts, Jake Owen, and Neal McCoy are some of the artists who have recorded Phillip’s work. Rascal Flatts recorded White’s “I’m Movin’ On,” which won the Academy of Country Music’s Song of the Year. White has been recognized in the TV and film industry as well, writing “I’m A Survivor,” the theme song for

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Reba McEntire’s self-titled hit TV show. His work is also featured on the soundtrack for the film Act of Valor.

Monty Holmes’ love of traditional country music was instilled in him as a child growing up in Lubbock, Texas.

Monty has penned several hit songs for George Strait, including the chart toppers “I Know She Still Loves Me,” “When Did You Stop Loving Me,” and from the 2009 Grammy award winning Country Album of the Year, “Troubadour” and “House of Cash.” In 2009, “Troubadour” was honored with the Nashville Songwriter’s Association International’s “One of the 10 Songs I Wish I Had Written” award, which is voted on by fellow songwriters.

Monty cowrote Lee Ann Womack’s debut single, “Never Again, Again,” as well as “What I Do the Best” for John Michael Montgomery.

bama Music Hall of Fame in the Shoals for his achievements.

This is the second Songwriters Showcase offered by Athens State’s Center for Lifelong Learning, and we are so pleased to bring this summer concert once again to North Alabama.

To purchase tickets, please visit

our website at www.athens.edu/ CLL. Then click on “Current Courses,” and find the Songwriters Showcase on June 23 in the Events Calendar. Tickets are also available by calling 256-233-8260 or by stopping by the Center for Lifelong Learning at 121 South Marion Street in Athens.

Mark Narmore hails from the music mecca of Muscle Shoals, Alabama. He has over 80 major recordings to his credit including the likes of Josh Turner, John Michael Montgomery, Terri Clark, Craig Morgan, Shenandoah, Blackhawk, Brandy Clark, Sylvia, Tracy Lawrence and Michelle Wright. Mark's first country hit was "The Moon over Georgia," recorded by Shenandoah, followed by Blackhawk's "Like There Ain't No Yesterday." In 2005, Mark co-wrote the most played country song on the radio that year and also Billboard's #8 song for the 2000's decade, "That's What I Love About Sunday." Mark has a bronze star in the lobby of the Ala-

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June 16 - July 6, 2017

The View From The Bridge

It Is A Race: Are You Running?

by Jackie Warner Jackie Warner

Career Development Facilitator “Impact, Engage, Grow” Community Matters

I hope everyone’s summer is off to a great start.

It is a race to get everything done during these summer months. Vacation, relaxation, chores, and activities... a lot to do and so little time to accomplish it all.

Sound a little too familiar? Well, let’s take our thoughts much deeper and engage in a discussion about the race that we are all in but sometimes tend not to realize what it will mean for us if we complete and cross the finish line.

Hebrews 12:1 James Version says:

King (KJV)

“Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,” Looking at this verse, there are personal reflections and identifiers that we all need to stop and address: 1.Lay aside your weights What is keeping you from moving forward? When you are burdened and tied down with your personal weights, whatever they are in your life, you can’t move right or left at all.

2.It also says for us to lay aside - get rid of the sin which so easily binds us.

We all know those sins that keep us from being able to run the great race

June 16 - July 6, 2017

of faith - people, things, habits…we all have them in our life. You know when you really want to move but you allow the road blocks to keep you in your tracks. Sometimes you have to climb the mountain you created to get where you need to be.

3.So, in order to make it to the finish line as victor, you have to run. Yes, run! Run past those sinful activities, and sinful people, too. Our time is limited, but we act as if there is not even a race to run. We are idle, just walking aimlessly without our road map, to the finish line.

How to do we get to the Finish Line?

Hebrews 12:2 (KJV) tells us how: “Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising

the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” We must know where we are going by choosing to “look” to Jesus who is the start and finish of our faith, but only if we allow HIM to be.

He endured for us to have the opportunity to cross that finish line where He is waiting for our entrance home.

•“Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” Ephesians 5:20 (KJV) - Being thankful as we are running this race. Yes, it is hard when we are in the midst of it all, but Galatians 6:9 tells us to be encouraged: “Let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.”

of the devil.” Ephesians 6:11 (KJV) - We have to put on the “whole” armour of God; part is not enough to be able to stand against the worldly issues that we combat daily. We have to be all in.

•“Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.”

Philippians 2:16 (KJV) - So running requires that we be fruitful and successful in our work. Not just working to work, but purposeful.

Believe it or not, the path that is set before us does have a finish line, have you started yet? Exercise your Faith!

Until Next Time, Be Sincere, Kind and Intentional Jackie Warner, Community Outreach Specialist Email: thebridge.us@gmail.com Check out upcoming events: http://thebridgeus.yolasite.com/

•“Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles

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Horse Whispering

Braiding The Strands: You, Horse, And God

by Deb Kitchenmaster God describes YOU as His faithful or goodly horse in battle. A scripture to support this statement is found in the Old Testament in Zechariah 10:3-5.

I met a couple in Arizona who raise race horses. They do NOT bronc ride these horses in the way you see in rodeos.

Their hands are the gentle tools that take the young horses (filly/female or colt/male) one step at a time -- building confidence, not breaking their spirits. The halter training of young stock is interesting. They put a halter on the filly or colt and hook it to a mule.

It’s not long until the filly or colt learns to submit to that mule. Please note: it requires both of them to submit to each other, since each has a mind of its own. In a short amount of time, however, the mule learns to take advantage of the young horse. He learns that if he will hold his head just right, the youngster cannot get up once it lies down. The mule seems to enjoy this superiority, and holds the youngster down at his will.

about to move into a new dimension.

It is here the horse is introduced to a saddle pony that brings comfort. Days go by, and soon the race horse feels at ease in this new environment. He enjoys stretching his legs as he feels the wind blowing through his mane.

Another transition! The saddle pony is gone. It’s

they are sad, like they are grieving. There is then a transition that takes place.

God has called you to know Christ in you, the hope of glory. Do not hesitate when the Lord leads you to drop some mule doctrine in order to go to a higher level and fulfill your real calling in life.

You are called to be a Son or a Daughter of Abba Father Himself. You are not

called to be an orphan!

The horse is then trained to the harness, bridle, and saddle. Little by little, the training continues until the big day when the race horse steps out of its corral and goes down to the race track. There’s a new wind blowing in the air. With flared nostrils, the little race horse knows that he is

The time comes to move on from the mule connection. The initial halter training is over and it’s time to go further -- to be the race horse it was bred to be. I must point out that when the mule and horse are unhooked, each is hurt.

They have grown to like each other. For days

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time to know that what is inside is greater than a form of something on the outside. He begins to trust the One who holds the reins.

So often a person identifies with what he has been all of his life rather than what he is called to be. Do not continue to identify with the mule or the saddle pony experience. They only represent levels one must go through.

Let us submit to the training in righteousness, become unhooked from mule doctrines, and no longer be held back by saddle ponies.

“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” -Ralph Waldo Emerson Make a “bridle” from the “strands” comprised of you and God, while embracing the unique training in righteousness provided by a goodly horse that God prepares for you; now you must run the race that is before you.

Identify with Jesus and His life.

You are a winner. You are a race horse.

Your NEIGHbor, Deb Kitchenmaster Corral Connections www.corralconnections.com 256-426-7947 Animal B.E.S.T. practitioner dkitchenmaster@mchsi.com

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June 16 - July 6, 2017

Mental Health Minute

Forgive Or Forget

by Lisa Philippart, Licensed Professional Counselor

“If you can't forgive and forget, then pick one and do it ...” Jim Brault I have a confession to make. I know we don’t know each other very well yet, but I need to make this admission publicly. I WAS the queen of grudges. I do believe that I held the world’s record for longest resentment time by a human being. As a highly sensitive person (a topic for another day), for most of my life I took everything personally. Which means if you hurt my feelings, and that used to happen quite often, I would RARELY “just get over it.”

But then I became a mental health counselor, and learned that unforgiveness can keep our bodies and brains in a constant state of high alert and lead to numerous unhealthy results.

For example, I used to nurse and replay a hurt over and over in my head, which fueled my negative emotions and burned the event and pain even deeper in my neurological pathways.

This is called rumination. And when we ruminate our harmful emotions become even more amplified. The words or incident would morph into something far worse and I would end up berating myself through negative self-talk. Any of this sound familiar?

I had even gotten to the point where I was having memory problems.

When we are continually

June 16 - July 6, 2017

stressed, and we refuse to forgive (or forget), cortisol causes our memory center, the hippocampus, to atrophy. My body was trying to tell me that my unforgiveness was keeping me chained to the wrongdoer, who most likely was oblivious to my bitterness. My destructive thoughts were detrimental to me physically, mentally, and emotionally.

My hope for you is that you can begin to forgive.

Some transgressions may take a long time to be fully absolved. Forgiveness is a process, and the deeper the hurt, the longer the healing may take. It’s not so much forgive and forget, as

it is CHOOSING to remember it less and less.

Even better, would be choosing to remember that the foundation of the Christian faith is grace, receiving it and extending it to others.

I am happy to report that I have been in resentment recovery for a while now, but I have to work at it every day.

Until next time…Lisa Lisa Philippart is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who divides her time between her own private practice in Huntsville and providing personal counseling services at Athens State University.

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Medical Update

Statins For Cardiovascular Disease: Truths, Myths, And Controversies

by Dr. Shanna Ndong No group of medications is more controversial in my practice than the ‘statins.’ The statins or hydroxymethylglutaryl (HMG) CoA reductase inhibitors are a group of medications that are used to treat elevated cholesterol levels and lower risk of heart attack and stroke. They include medications like Crestor (rosuvastatin), Lipitor (atorvastatin), Zocor (simvastatin), and Pravachol (pravastatin) to name a few. They act to block the last step in cholesterol production in the liver and lower LDL by 30-60%.

Statins and the Liver When statins were introduced in the 1990s, regular lab monitoring was recommended to screen for elevations in liver enzymes. The FDA changed the safety labeling after it became apparent that significant elevations in liver enzymes in patients taking statins are relatively rare (0.1%). Routine monitoring of liver function is no longer needed.

ed muscle enzymes, and proteins in the urine.

Muscle injury is more likely to occur on higher doses of statin, with concurrent use of other cholesterol medications like Niaspan (niacin) or Zetia (ezetimibe), and in patients with conditions like ALS, hypothyroidism, or renal failure. The onset of muscle symptoms is usually within weeks to months of starting the statin, but may occur at any time. If muscle pain is experienced while taking a statin, an assessment for elevations in muscle enzymes, hypothyroidism, drug interactions, or low vitamin D can be performed. A decrease in dosage or a switch in the statin may be made if muscle enzyme levels are normal.

Statins and Vitamin D Research is ongoing, but patients taking statins tend to have higher vitamin D levels. However,

patients with low vitamin D are more likely to experience statin-related muscle pain. Thus, a vitamin D level should be measured prior to initiating a statin.

Statins and Coenzyme Q10 Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10, ubiquinone) is an antioxidant that helps to make energy in the muscle cell.

Research has been inconsistent on the matter, but some studies have found that statins decrease CoQ10 levels in the muscle and blood. It has been speculated that a reduction in CoQ10 levels in muscle may contribute to statin-induced muscle injury.

Some researchers have suggested that supplementation with ubiquinone or ubiquinol (a more expensive form) can reduce the risk of muscle aches. A meta-analysis of randomized trials concluded that existing trials

Statins and Muscle Pain & Injury Statins can cause varying degrees of muscle pain and injury that occurs in approximately 4-8% of users. Symptoms can range from myalgia, which is characterized by mild muscle aches and soreness with normal muscle enzymes, to the severe condition known as rhabdomyolysis, which is a combination of kidney failure, very elevat-

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do not suggest a benefit of CoQ10 for statin myopathy, but larger trials are needed to confirm this lack of benefit.

Statins and Diabetes Statins have been associated with an increased risk of diabetes that is most significant with high-potency statins like Lipitor and Crestor. A 2016 analysis estimated that high-dose therapy would lead to 50 to 100 new cases of diabetes in 10,000 treated individuals. However, statins have been shown to reduce heart attacks and strokes in known diabetics. Both randomized trials and observational studies suggest that the benefits of statins on reduction of cardiovascular events outweigh the risk of development of diabetes in many.

Statins Loss

and

Memory

The FDA released a warning in 2012 after it

compiled several reports it received through its Adverse Event Reporting System (AERS) of memory loss associated with statin use. Systematic reviews of randomized trials since that time have failed to find an association between statin use and memory loss; however, randomized trials may not detect rare medication side effects. In contrast to the reports above, several studies have even shown a reduced risk of dementia with statin use.

Statins Risk

and

Cancer

There is no evidence that statins increase or decrease risk for cancer.

Summary In summary, the statins have had their fair share of controversies, but every medical intervention has risks and benefits.

People who benefit most from statin use are patients who already have cardiovascular disease.

This includes individuals who have had a heart attack, coronary artery stenting or bypass, angina, or stroke. I want to emphasize that treatment with statins is not about number goals.

The ultimate goal of statin treatment is reduction in risk for cardiovascular events like heart attack or stroke, and prevention of death.

I believe that the statins can greatly benefit certain high-risk patients and are invaluable drugs for anyone with cardiovascular disease.

June 16 - July 6, 2017

Foreman’s Forum

Assertive Disengagement

by Paul Foreman Years ago I had these mud guards on my truck.

The mud guards had an image of Yosemite Sam with bold letters saying, “BACK OFF.” In case you don’t know Yosemite Sam, he was a cartoon character who was short but mean looking and had a big red beard.

Now old Sam had two pistols and he looked like he was ready to start blasting. That could get you in big trouble if there is NO threat against your life. But yelling “BACK OFF” when someone enters your personal space in a suspicious way, may be all that is needed to “DISENGAGE” and avoid a bad situation.

Let’s say you are walking to your car in a parking garage or shopping center parking lot. You are aware of your surroundings and realize a stranger is flanking you, and closing in fast. Is he just in a hurry, walking towards his own car? Or, is he preparing to attack his next victim? You take a second look and here he comes. Can you pull your gun and threaten him? NOT if you want to remain on the “free side” of the jail bars! Granted this has got all the signs of impending attack, but no one has threatened you, yet. The possible threat is still twenty or so feet away. You are still a long way from the safety of your car. You are the polite and courteous type and always acknowledge strangers with a smile or a “Good evening,” but this one has the hairs on

June 16 - July 6, 2017

the back of your neck telling you “something's NOT right.”

“Back off! Stop now! Do not come any closer!”

Now that doesn’t seem like the polite thing to do does it? But, polite people do not walk quickly toward strangers in an aggressive manner. The stranger may be insulted, but so what? A criminal is looking for an easy victim, someone who is going to give up easily without a fight. You have just shown him that you are ready for him. If this guy is more persistent, he may try to soften you up by saying something like, “Oh, I was just looking for someone to help me.

My battery is dead. I have jumper cables; can you please help me?” Don’t fall for any excuses!

“My sick mother is at home and I need to get this medicine to her right away.” “My car is broke down, please help me?” The stories are endless!

any closer!” Say it loud and sound as mean as you can…you know, like when your kids are wrestling and about ready to break some furniture!

Only if and when this miscreant makes a threat or displays a weapon can you legally pull your gun. Microseconds count here and you cannot take time to think about it.

You must have a plan of action. Your planning and training will pay off.

Avoiding bad situations, before they ever happen is even better. Park in well-lit areas, not way out at the end of the parking lot. Have someone with you, if at all possible. If you are leaving work, have a coworker walk with you to your car. If you see some seedy, sus-

picious characters hanging out near your car, go back inside the building.

Most malls have security officers; ask them for help. Don’t be afraid to call the police! So many people I talk to express their concern saying they don’t want to make a false alarm. Believe me, the police would rather respond and find that you are safe, than arrive later and find you injured or dead. “Safe” is a whole lot less paperwork.

•Exit and enter your vehicle quickly. Have your keys already in hand.

You can find what you’re looking for after you’re inside locked doors!

•When you enter your car, lock all doors immediately and get the

vehicle in motion ASAP. Don’t sit in a motionless vehicle any longer than you have to.

•Stay safe. Get trained in safe and proper use of firearms and self-defense.

Paul Foreman is a retired deputy sheriff from Lee County Florida.

He is an NRA Certified Firearms Instructor. For self-defense firearms training, Paul can be reached through his web site, www.

Paulforeman.com, or e-mail at Captureman@ PaulForeman.com To Join the NRA and protect your 2nd Amendment Rights, go to my web site and click on the NRA Eagle.

Be ASSERTIVE! Your life may depend on it! If you are armed, do not draw and display your gun, not yet.

With your “off hand” raised, palm open like a traffic cop, get him stopped. Your strong hand is “staged” and already on your firearm, BUT your gun is still out of his sight.

Your body is angled slightly away from him so your weapon is NOT seen by this potential attacker. Repeat the order, “Stop now! Do not come

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Athens Lions Club Kiddie Carnival

The Athens Lions Club will again bring a piece of America to life this summer with the opening of their annual Kiddie Carnival June 29th. A mixture of joy, excitement and anticipation will fill the air as veteran and new riders wait their turn to ride one of the 10 rides for toddlers and young children. One such ride is the small vintage train that circles on its own track, riders scream and raise their arms as it goes through the dark train shed. Other kids and families wait in line for delicious favorites including funnel cakes, popcorn and hamburgers. Concessions also include corn dogs, chicken sandwiches, cold drinks, snow cones and dippin dots.

The Athens Lions Club Kiddie Carnival has provided generations of fun for kids and their parents, grandparents and friends. Located at the same site since 1957; it’s a summer pastime for many who now bring their kids out to enjoy the Kiddie Carnival. The Kiddie Carnival will open June 29th, with an opening ceremony at 6:00pm and rides opening around 6:30pm. Each ride requires just one 50 cent ticket. Families from surrounding communities are learning about this summer treasure of fun for their young kids.

As families enter the Kiddie Carnival, to their right old vintage rocket ships circle as the motor hums, kids giggle and watch the crowd as they zoom around. Just as the riders settle into the flight a Lion member changes the control so the rockets rise up a few feet, circle for a while in “orbit” and then drop back down. Other rides include small and large swings, a parachute ride that takes riders up as it circles and then come back down and a small scale roller coaster. The scrambler ride circles on its platform as kids spin in their seat, heading toward the crowd and then back to the center. Enjoyed by toddlers are the old fashion pedal cars that go around and the carousel with horses, as their parents stand beside them on the ride. For the more adventurous riders there is a small ferris wheel that takes the riders up above the crowd where they look over the sights and sounds of another fun night at the Kiddie Carnival.

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The Kiddie Carnival is operated by Athens Lions Club members and other countless volunteers. Assistance to operate the Kiddie Carnival is provided by spouses of club members, the Leo Club, local high school sororities and other civic groups and businesses as well as individual volunteers.

Athens Lions President Tim Carter stated “It is a wonderful experience each summer to be able to witness all the kids having such a grand time at the carnival and knowing that at the same time we are raising funds that go to help some of our less fortunate families with expenses for correcting their visual problems.”

A part of the funds from last year’s Kiddie Carnival were recently used to fund scholarships for 5 local high school seniors who volunteered at the carnival and met other criteria. Lions International key focus area is sight. The Athens Lions Club supports this by helping those in the Athens who qualify with sight exams or glasses, as well as collecting used eyeglasses to be recycled. In the past year they have supported Alabama Lions Sight Conservation Association, Camp ASCCA and Camp Seale Harris, a camp for youth with diabetes and local causes.

The club, through manpower or funding, has provided assistance to Limestone Career Technical School Leo Club; Learn to read council, Hospice of Limestone County, Superhero Fun Day, Athens Grease Festival and the Athens Storytelling Festival. The big train has been taken to numerous civic events including riding in the Athens Christmas parade and providing rides at the Limestone Sherriff’s Special Needs Rodeo. It is the generous support of the Kiddie Carnival that allows these programs and community support by the Athens Lions Club.

The Kiddie Carnival is located across from Athens Middle School at 309 E Forrest Street. It is open every Thursday, Friday & Saturday night June 29th-August 5th from 6:30pm-9:30pm. Additional information about the Kiddie Carnival can be found at http://e-clubhouse.org/sites/ athensal/ or their Facebook page: Athens Lions Club Kiddie Carnival.

June 16 - July 6, 2017

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